Called By God

CALLED BY GOD

a prayer to open

Here I am, Lord. Remind me who I am.

I am loved. I am known. I belong to you.

Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future.

When we think of calling, we usually think of vocation. Paul seemed to mean something different: that every person who is in Christ has been called to represent God in this world. Whatever else we might be called to do in this world, we are first and foremost called to be representatives of Christ to a world longing for healing, peace, reconciliation, and wholeness. To lead a life worthy of that calling means not only to live differently from what we see modeled in the world but also to live differently from what comes naturally. It requires no effort for us to be selfish, prideful, defensive, and short tempered. But to be humble, gentle, and patient? To live united and at peace with others? This requires a choice to partner with the Holy Spirit’s transformative work in us, discipline, and a community that tells us the truth.

• Consider the circumstances in the last week in which you have not exercised humility, gentleness, or patience. What were you experiencing in those circumstances? What invitation from God do you sense arising out of what you experienced? What might need to be transformed? Surrendered? Released?
• What spiritual practices help you grow in humility, gentleness, and patience? What situations or relationships tend to undermine these qualities?
• Take a moment to quiet yourself in God’s loving presence. Ask him to open your eyes and heart to the ways he wants you to live more fully into the truth that he has called you to be Christ’s representative in the world. What did God bring to mind?

Father, forgive me for my impatience, my pride, and my irritation with others. I need your help. I know I am at my worst when I am tired, overwhelmed, or rushed. I cannot drum up the energy or ability to extend grace, peace, or love when I have not spent time with you, studying your Word, seeking your guidance, and abiding in your presence. I want only to reflect Jesus to the people I meet. Guide me into your presence by your grace so I may be filled. Amen.